The ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia are beginning to influence film schedules across industries, including Hindi cinema. Recently, reports suggested that the Dubai schedule of Shah Rukh Khan’s ‘King’ had to be scrapped. Now, another major project, ‘Welcome to the Jungle’ starring Akshay Kumar, has also revised its international shoot plans due to the situation.
Dubai shoot cancelled for ‘Welcome to the Jungle’
Director Ahmed Khan had initially planned to film a lavish song sequence for ‘Welcome to the Jungle’ in Dubai. However, given the uncertainty, the team has decided to relocate the shoot to Mumbai. The shift comes after waiting for weeks in hopes that conditions would stabilise in the region.
Postponing the shoot was not a viable option because the song features a large ensemble cast, including Suniel Shetty, Arshad Warsi, Raveena Tandon, Jackie Shroff, Paresh Rawal, Lara Dutta, Disha Patani, Jacqueline Fernandez, and Shreyas Talpade. Coordinating their dates again would have been extremely challenging, prompting the makers to quickly find an alternative.
Mumbai to recreate Dubai’s glamour
According to reports, elaborate sets are being planned across Mumbai, including Madh Island, Golden Tobacco Studio, and Film City in Goregaon. Designed by Sailesh Mhadik, these setups will recreate high-end visuals like nightclubs, casinos, and private jets. Reports suggested that director Ahmed Khan and producer Firoz A Nadiadwala had envisioned the track as a glamorous depiction of luxury living, which made Dubai an ideal choice initially. However, after waiting for nearly a month without improvement in the situation, the team ultimately decided to shift the shoot location to Mumbai.The team is now gearing up to begin filming the song in mid-April. Confirming the update, Ahmed Khan shared with Mid-Day, “We will now shoot the song in Mumbai. It’s a glamorous song with the entire cast.”
More about ‘Welcome to the Jungle’
‘Welcome to the Jungle’ continues the popular comedy franchise that began in 2007 with ‘Welcome’. The original film, starring Akshay Kumar, the late Feroz Khan, Katrina Kaif, Anil Kapoor, Nana Patekar and Paresh Rawal became a cult favorite for its humor and memorable characters. A sequel followed in 2015 with John Abraham and Shruti Haasan. Both earlier films were directed by Anees Bazmee.
